How to prepare a clothing production brief

Start with what you already have

A useful clothing production brief gives a manufacturer enough information to understand your product and identify what still needs to be decided. It can start with a tech pack, an existing garment, reference photographs or a clearly described idea.

The aim is to make your requirements clear. If a detail is undecided, mark it as a question rather than leaving the manufacturer to guess.

Describe the garment and its intended use

State the product category, who will wear it and where it will be sold. A relaxed sleepwear top and a fitted everyday T-shirt may need different fabrics, construction and fit, even when their sketches look similar.

• Identify each style and include front, back and detail views where possible.
• Explain the fit you want and note any important features, such as a ribbed neckline, pockets or a particular waistband.
• Use reference images to explain specific details. Make clear which elements you want to develop for your own design.

Set out fabric and trim requirements

If you have a fabric specification, include its composition, weight, knit construction, colour and required finish. If you do not, describe the hand feel, stretch, opacity and intended use so that options can be discussed.

List trims separately: rib, elastic, drawcords, zips, buttons, labels and any other components. Record colour references and artwork requirements where relevant. Ask which choices need a physical swatch or sample approval.

Make measurements and fit expectations clear

A measurement chart is most useful when it names the points being measured, states the units and explains how each measurement is taken. Include the sample size, intended size range and agreed tolerances when they are available.

An approved reference garment can help communicate fit, but it does not replace an agreed specification. Discuss which details should be followed and which should be changed.

Share quantities, markets and target timing

Give an estimated quantity by style, colour and size. Order requirements depend on the garment and its materials, so ask for an assessment for your particular collection.

Distinguish the date you need goods ready to ship from the date you need them delivered. Allow the manufacturer to review fabric availability, sampling, approvals, production and transport before confirming a schedule.

Tell the manufacturer your destination market and any testing, labelling or packaging requirements. Requirements can vary by garment and market; identify what your sourcing or compliance team needs to confirm.

Include the finishing details

Brand labels, care labels, size labels, hangtags, folding, individual packing and carton markings can affect preparation and cost. Include artwork and packing instructions when available, and list anything still awaiting approval.

A checklist before you send your brief

• Style references, drawings or photographs
• Fabric, colour and trim requirements
• Measurements, sample size and size range
• Estimated quantities by style and colour
• Artwork, labels and packaging details
• Destination market, target timing and open questions

Keep a dated version of the brief and record changes after each review. One agreed reference reduces the chance that different people work from different instructions.

See how we work for the stages from your brief to production, or send your project details to discuss what you already have.